Diversity at Bridgewater College

Bridgewater College is committed to inclusion of everyone, regardless of their identity or background. We seek to engage the many voices and perspectives that exist within our community. When you are part of this community, you are one of those voices.

You’ll be able to share your perspective and help us continue to encourage a diverse, inclusive and positive community that values every individual and group. At BC, we foster awareness, respect, understanding and cooperation among everyone.

The Center for Diversity Education and Advocacy creates meaningful opportunities for all BC students, faculty, staff and community. Together, we can share, learn and grow in understanding and appreciation of cultural differences and similarities. Find out more about student organizations and opportunities to get involved on campus.

Inter-Cultural Advisory Council

The Inter-Cultural Advisory Council (IAC) promotes a welcoming environment, to cultivate interaction and dialogue among underrepresented populations of campus constituents, to provide a foundation for more sensitive and informed interactions in experiences beyond the campus community, and to increase inclusivity across the college. The Council is comprised of a broad representation through the campus community.

Eagle Success

Eagle Success is a retention program that helps first-year students of color and first-generation college students adjust to life at Bridgewater College. Eagle Success is aimed at building a community among African-American, Asian-American, Native American, Latino, Multi-racial and first-generation college students. The purpose of Eagle Success is to ease student transition from home to living and adjusting to a demanding residential community. This orientation will ease the transition to Bridgewater College by exposing students to its community and the many programs and opportunities available for students.

Convocations and Endowed Lectures

Past Speakers

Judy Smith, leading crisis communication strategist and inspiration for ABC’s hit television show Scandal

Cornel West, an American philosopher, academic, social activist, author, public intellectual and prominent member of the Democratic Socialists of America.

The Honorable Lawrence Webb, a member of the City of Falls Church School Board, on “Peace and Justice: Finding Common Ground”

Harrisonburg Mayor Christopher B. Jones and President of the Harrisonburg NAACP, on the legacy and life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. Bennet Omalu, who was played by Will Smith in the movie Concussion, on his research into brain damage in football players who have suffered repeated concussions